The 12 best infinity pools in Australia

Kate Bettes Kate Bettes
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Like the illusion they are famous for, our love for the infinity pool is endless.

Gorgeous, photographic and endlessly enticing. No wonder we remain obsessed with infinity pools.

There is a whole world of pools to perch next to. But who needs to travel far when we have these stunning ones at home?

1. qualia, Qld

Any view of the Whitsundays on the Great Barrier Reef is enough to make us squeal with excitement. But when it comes from the infinity pool at the luxurious qualia resort?

Infinity pool at qualia resort.
Take in stunning sea views from the comfort of your room. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Hold on to the edge, because we might just faint from joy. Swim here until it’s time for lunch at the adjacent Pebble Beach restaurant or a snooze on one of the private cabanas. The pool is limited to guest use.

Infinity pool at qualia resort.
Swim in qualia’s stunning infinity pool. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Address: 20 Whitsunday Blvd, Whitsundays, Qld

2. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, NSW

Blue-jade ocean views. The buzz of a rainforest thick with banyan trees and palms. The dizzying heights of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird.

a woman sitting on the edge of the infinity pool on Lord Howe Island at Capella Lodge
Take in the alluring beauty of Lord Howe Island from Capella Lodge’s infinity pool. (Image: tom-archer.com)

The plunge pool overlooking all this and Lovers Bay at Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island is the cherry on top of the alluring beauty of this remote Pacific island. You will have to pay to play: the pool, restaurant and lodge here are exclusively for Capella guests.

the balcony facing mountain and beach views at Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, NSW
Enjoy this slice of paradise. (Image: Rhiannon Taylor)

Address: Lagoon Rd, Lord Howe Island, NSW

3. The Louise, SA

The wine region of the Barossa Valley stuns at any angle – and especially so from the infinity pool at The Louise.

the infinity pool with sun loungers at The Louise, SA
The Louise’s infinity pool overlooks the endless expanse of the valley.

The outdoor pool overlooks the endless expanse of the valley, emphasising the dedication of this Baillie Lodges member to show off the world-famous Barossa produce.

sunset views from the exterior of The Louise, SA
Relax at The Louise.

The Louise has its own wine cellar, and the onsite award-winning Appellation restaurant with its Australian degustation menu, which are available to non-guests.

the dining interior of Appellation Restaurant at The Louise, SA
Indulge at the award-winning Appellation Restaurant.

Address: 375 Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga, SA

4. Eco Beach Resort, WA

When it comes to sunsets, it’s hard to beat watching the evening close in over Broome in WA.

a woman sitting on the edge of the infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort, WA during sunset
It’s hard to beat watching the evening close at Eco Beach Resort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@tessomewhere)

But when you stay in the sustainable four-star Eco Beach Resort, you can add an infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean to that already winning hand.

Once the stars come out in their droves, it’s time to retire to Eco Beach Resort’s Jack’s Bar and Restaurant for a sundowner. Access to the pool is guest-only.

a woman relaxing in the infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort, WA
The infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort overlooks the Indian Ocean. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@tessomewhere)

Address: Lot 323 Great Northern Highway, Broome, WA

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5. Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Vic

Sky-high, five-star and ultra-luxurious. One thing the Ritz-Carlton in central Melbourne does not have is the ability to do things in halves. Spend plenty of time exploring the city best known for its Europe Down Under vibes but save some for this zen-like heated infinity pool overlooking the city.

the infinity pool at Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Vic
The Ritz-Carlton looks out over the city.

Once your fingers are adequately wrinkly, explore further afield in this 80-floor hotel – discovering commissioned artworks from First Nations artists like Djirrirra Wununmurra and Reko Rennie and experiencing fine-dining at the Ritz Carlton’s panoramic Atria.

the indoor setting of the infinity pool at Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Vic
Lounge by the pool overlooking the city at Ritz-Carlton Melbourne.

Address: 650 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Vic

6. Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook, NSW

Upgrade your NSW South Coast trip when you relax poolside at the boutique Bannisters by the Sea in Mollymook.

sunloungers by the poolside at Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook, NSW
Lounge by the pool at Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook.

Perched at the top of the cliffs overlooking the waves, the Bannisters By the Sea Hotel infinity pool is the perfect escape from the Sydney crowds. Serving up pizzas and cocktails, the Bannisters Pool Bar is open to guests and visitors.

a woman relaxing in the infinity pool at Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook.
Bask in the glory of Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook.

Address: 191 Mitchell Parade, Mollymook, NSW

7. Lake Argyle Resort, WA

A caravan and camping ground aren’t the first places you would usually associate with infinity pools with drop-dead gorgeous views.

a woman sitting by the edge on the infinity pool at Lake Argyle Resort, WA
The views at Lake Argyle Resort are nothing short of epic. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The Lake Argyle Resort in the East Kimberley is the exception. Guests here can enjoy a resort-style pool overlooking Australia’s second-largest freshwater lake.

The beer garden restaurant and swimming pool are available to the public, for a fee. If hunger strikes after a swim, the camp kitchen and shared barbecue spaces are also a cheap alternative for dinner.

a couple sitting by the edge of the infinity pool during sunset at Lake Argyle Resort, WA
Dramatic sunset hues and breathtaking vistas at Lake Argyle Resort make the perfect romantic getaway. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Address: 525 Lake Argyle Road Lake Argyle, WA

8. QT Hotels Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, Qld

With its glowing skyline and buzzing nightlife, there is nothing better after a night out in Surfers Paradise than spending the day poolside. And where better than the infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast?

a woman floating at the infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast
The infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast feels like a dream.

Hair-of-the-dog bottle service spiked popsicles from the Spring poolside bar and restaurant, and Palm Springs-style cabanas await. Not a guest? No stress. Anyone can book a visit here.

a top view of the infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast
A Palm Springs-style pool is what tropical dreams are made of. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Address: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise, Qld

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9. The Billabong at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Qld

You won’t find any crocs in The Crocodile Hunter Lodge’s pool – despite the name. A wilderness accommodation by the world-famous conservationist Steve Irwin, those that book a stay in the family cabins for guest-only access to a very special kind of infinity pool.

the infinity pool at The Billabong at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Qld
Laze by the pool at Crocodile Hunter Lodge.

Sit in ‘the billabong’ quietly, and the chances are you will see Australian wildlife like kangaroos, emus and echidnas, amble past. The pool is accessible-friendly, and The Warrior Restaurant is attached to the lodge.

emus walking around The Billabong at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Qld
Australian wildlife is a common sight here. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Crocodile Hunter Lodge)

Address: 88 Irwin Rd, Beerwah, Qld

10. Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula, Vic

Pinot grape skin scrubs, a close-at-hand winery cellar door, and a coveted spot on the Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List. Could we be in any more of a frenzy to get down to the Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula?

the infinity pool at Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Relax by the pool at Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula.

Throw in its pavilion complete with infinity pool views over the LL Vineyard (accessible to guests only), and we are practically frothing at the mouth to make a booking. Non-guests can also book the hotel’s Doot Doot Doot restaurant and visit the Rare Hare cellar door.

the scenic LL Vineyard sunrise views at Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Revel in views over the vineyard.

Address: LL Vineyard, 166 Balnarring Rd, Merricks North, Vic

11. W Hotel Sydney, NSW

Opened in 2023, the then world’s biggest W Hotel in the world at ‘The Ribbon’ building was bound to get tongues wagging. And at this luxury Darling Harbour accommodation, the chance to float in the infinity pool at the W Hotel Sydney is definitely part of it.

the facade of W Hotel Sydney, NSW
W Hotel Sydney is set majestically over Darling Harbour.

Guests should take the elevator to the 29th floor to get to the WET Deck. There, do a few laps over the playful floor mosaics of the heated pool, before settling in for nibbles and cocktails overlooking the world’s most beautiful harbour.

the WET Deck infinity pool at W Hotel Sydney
Indulge on the WET Deck at the W Hotel Sydney.

Address: 31 Wheat Rd, Sydney, NSW

12. ibis Styles Hobart, Tas

When it comes to looking for in-house soaks in Tasmania, social media tends to focus on steamy standalone baths in remote locations. But at the state capital, you can also drop by the infinity pool at the ibis Styles Hobart.

the infinity pool at the ibis Styles Hobart
Soak up city views from the infinity pool at ibis Syles Hobart.

Located in the centre of Hobart and overlooking the city, a swim in this four-star hotel pool is a Champagne experience on a beer budget.

the infinity pool at the ibis Styles Hobart
Swim in style with epic views of the skyline.

Address: 173 Macquarie St, Hobart, Tas

Kate Bettes
Kate Bettes is a freelance travel writer. Whether having a picnic in Vietnamese jungle with new friends, or partying in the back of a limousine in Hollywood, Kate’s experiences have left her with the sneaking suspicion that the best travel memories happen when you least expect. It’s this feeling - and how to get it - that she loves to write about.
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The best new accommodation along the Great Ocean Road

    Louis Costello Louis Costello
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    A new wave of retreats, hotels, glamping sites and more is encouraging visitors to savour their time spent along the Great Ocean Road.

    Long holding a place as one of Australia’s most rewarding drives, cliffs, curves and shifting coastal light continue to draw travellers to Victoria’s coastline year after year. What has evolved more quietly is the range of new accommodation along the Great Ocean Road to add new dimensions to the drive.

    Rather than competing for attention, these stays are shaped by their settings. They sit beside rivers, among vines, on the edge of lakes and close to town centres where local life unfolds at an unhurried pace. Together, they point to a way of travelling the Great Ocean Road that values time spent in place, as much as distance covered.

    1. The Monty, Anglesea

    Nina Cantina at the monty great ocean road
    Pop into Nina Cantina for tacos and views.

    Anglesea has always appealed to travellers drawn to a quieter stretch of coast, where surf culture, bushland and river scenery blend into one. The Monty complements that character with a recent rebrand and refresh with traditional beach road trip nostalgia in mind. Mid-century retro decor means rooms are contemporary and funky, without being over-styled.

    A highlight of the stay is Nina Cantina, the on-site Mexican restaurant overlooking the Anglesea River. Opening in 2026, it will undoubtedly become a popular gathering point, bringing together locals, day trippers and overnight guests. Watch the river flow while tucking into plates of tacos, before enjoying a digestion swim in The Monty’s pool.

    Mornings in Anglesea often begin quietly. Kangaroos are a familiar sight on the nearby golf course, and walking tracks wind through heathland that reflects the natural landscape of the Surf Coast. From here, the road south feels like a continuation rather than a departure, easing travellers into the next stretch of the journey.

    2. Basalt Retreats, Port Fairy

    Basalt Retreat Private Villa interior
    Discover this new adults-only retreat.

    Near Port Fairy, Basalt Retreats is an adults-only delight set among a 24-year-old vineyard at Basalt Wines. The accommodation is a mixture of luxury and linens (and ultra comfy beds), allowing the long stretches of grapes to take centre stage. As the sun sets, Basalt Retreats settles into stillness. With minimal light pollution, the night sky becomes part of the experience, and star-searchers will delight in the uninterrupted views of our vast universe.

    Poombeeyt Koontapool lookout
    See Poombeeyt Koontapool from the lookout.

    Staying along the Great Ocean Road western region gives you en route access to coastal landmarks. A visit to Poombeeyt Koontapool at Loch Ard Gorge is a must for those fascinated by natural blowholes, with enough walking trails to tucker out the most seasoned hiker.

    The Poorpa Yanyeen Meereeng Trail between Timboon and Port Campbell reveals how wetlands, farmland and coastline connect across the region, best appreciated on foot or by bike.

    3. Lake Colac Holiday Park, Colac

    cabin at Lake Colac Holiday Park
    Book into a cabin at Lake Colac Holiday Park.

    Lake Colac Holiday Park introduces new cabin accommodation set along the edge of a broad volcanic lake. The cabins are modern and light-filled, designed to make the most of the water views and open skies.

    Lake Colac plays an important role in local life, hosting community events and everyday rituals alike. Staying here offers insight into the agricultural heart of the Great Ocean Road region, where the pace is shaped by seasons rather than sightseeing schedules.

    Brae Restaurant great ocean road victoria
    Have a delicious lunch, then join a farm tour at Brae Restaurant. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Colac’s central location places visitors within reach of standout regional experiences. Otways Distillery’s Birregurra cellar door reflects the surrounding forest in its approach to spirits. While Brae Restaurant’s guided farm and kitchen garden tours offer a closer look at the land that underpins its acclaimed dining. Together, they highlight the strong connection between produce, place and people.

    4. Glamping tents, Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve

    Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve Glamping
    Take a breather in Apollo Bay with brand new glamping tents.

    Back on the coast, Apollo Bay has always been known to be a natural place to take a breather, sitting roughly at the Great Ocean Road’s midway point. The brand-spanking new glamping tents at the Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve offer comfortable accommodation that remains closely connected to the outdoors. With ensuite bathrooms and thoughtfully designed interiors, the cabin-tent hybrids offer enough privacy and luxuries to make the trip feel more luxurious than your standard camping affair.

    Set near the river and within walking distance of the town centre, the location allows guests to move easily between beach walks, forest drives and relaxed meals.

    A session at The Corner Sauna fits naturally into a stay here. The wood-fired sauna has become part of Apollo Bay’s way of life, offering warmth and restoration after time spent in the elements (also known as a frolic at the beach).

    Apollo Bay Fishermens Co-op
    Enjoy fresh seafood at Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op.

    Apollo Bay has enough to entertain and dazzle travellers more than your average town. Graze on fresh seafood at local cafes – like Graze or Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op – before venturing to nearby waterfalls. Spend hours kayaking among real-life seals, try your hand at surf lessons taught by understanding and patient guides, or simply spend your days reading a book while the surf crashes in front of you.

    Together, these new accommodation openings highlight the Great Ocean Road’s continued evolution. With more places that invite travellers to slow down and stay a little longer, the journey becomes less about rushing between landmarks and more about engaging with the unique towns along the way.

    Start planning your next trip along the Great Ocean Road at visitgreatoceanroad.org.au.